Moosic, Pa. - The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Triple-A/New York Yankees) return to PNC Field to open an eight-game homestand on Friday. Fireworks, more giveaways, theme nights and nightly specials ensure fun for everyone as the Syracuse Chiefs (Washington Nationals) and Columbus Clippers (Cleveland Indians) come to town.

On Friday, April 19, the Chiefs will make the journey south from Syracuse to begin a four-game series with the RailRiders. Friday Fireworks presented by Jack Williams Tire and Auto means a post-game fireworks show that will entertain fans of all ages. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 p.m.

Saturday, April 20 marks another giveaway night at PNC Field. The first 2,500 fans through the gates will receive a special RailRiders welcome mat. The welcome mat is shaped like home plate, giving fans the opportunity to score a run every time they step inside. Don't miss all the action before the game as well as a live band will be playing in the entrance plaza at PNC Field. First pitch is again slated for 7:05 p.m.

The team's second NEPA Honda Family FUNday coincides with SWB's second day game of the season on Sunday, April 21. Select RailRiders players will be on hand to sign autographs before the game. Face painters and other family entertainers will also be on hand for the pre-game festivities in the entrance plaza. After the RailRiders take on the Chiefs, kids will be able to run the bases of PNC Field, just like the RailRiders. It's also Hockey Day at the ballpark, so break out your favorite hockey jersey, eh. The Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins will be on hand for the celebration. Their mascot, Tux, will be on site too along with a hockey net and sticks for kids to enjoy. First pitch is at 1:05 p.m.

Scranton/Wilkes-Barre and Syracuse will wrap up the first half of the RailRiders' homestand on Monday, April 22. Fans will be able to dine on just a few dimes, with dollar hot dogs all night long at PNC Field. The first pitch is scheduled for 6:35 p.m.

A new opponent, the Columbus Clippers, will arrive in town on Tuesday, April 23. It's a 2-for-1 Tuesday when so fans can buy one ticket for the Northeast PA Honda Dealers Homer Zone (lawn seating) and receive another one free. This will mark the first game of a four-game series with Columbus at PNC Field. First pitch is set for 6:35 p.m.

On Wednesday, April 24, the RailRiders will host their first "School Day" game of the season. A special first pitch time of 10:35 a.m. will bring a ton of fun for fans of all ages, especially the younger guests. The Family FUNzone in center field will be a hot spot.

The season's second Thirsty Thursday presented by Budweiser on April 25 will give wallets yet another break. Fans can enjoy dollar Pepsi products and dollar beers from 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. First pitch comes at 6:35 p.m.

The homestand concludes on Friday, April 26 in a big, colorful and loud way. Be sure to bring your bell-bottoms, loud shirts and possibly a disco ball for '70s Night at PNC Field. The night's colorful spectrum continues after the game with more Friday Fireworks presented by Jack Williams Tire & Auto. The fireworks show is sure to send the last April home game of 2013 out with a boom. First pitch is set for 7:05 p.m.

Gates open for each game one hour and five minutes before game time. Great ticket packages, group deals and single-game tickets are available. With no upper deck at PNC Field anymore, every seat in the ballpark provides the supreme views and intimacy that make minor league baseball so special at incredibly affordable prices. For more information, please visit the team's official website, www.swbrailriders.com, or call 570-969-BALL (2255).

- SWB RailRiders - All Aboard! -

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.